Lynda Macdonald

Manager, City Planning, City of Toronto

Sector: Public Sector
Discipline: Planning/Urban Design
Year: 2014

Lynda Macdonald

Manager, City Planning, City of Toronto

Magic Moment: A fallout with my private sector consulting firm partners led me to apply to the City of Toronto for a job while I decided what to do next. Twenty-five years later, still at the City, this led me to a career in the public sector that has been endlessly rewarding.

Key Influence: Jack Milliken, University Professor – Jack taught me to stand back to see the big picture before getting to the details.

Next Big Challenge As An Industry: Climate change and environmental awareness. This needs be front of mind in everything we do, every day. The private and public sector working together, shoulder to shoulder, is critical. We all need to protect/create more green space, not treat nature as being disposable and champion environmental best practices.

Secret Talent: Mentoring and coaching those I work with.

On Championing Others… Championing is not just showcasing excellence but supporting the growth and space for future leaders. I do that by identifying opportunities and challenges for people to learn, passing on knowledge, standing beside my team and knowing when to stand aside.